Combiner positioning system

ABSTRACT

A combiner positioning system for a head-up display includes a carrier and a camwheel. The carrier supports a combiner for the head-up display, and the combiner is movable between a stowed position and a display position. The camwheel is rotatable about a camwheel axis. The rotation of the camwheel about the camwheel axis engages the carrier and moves the combiner between the stowed position and the display position.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims the benefit of U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 61/549,991, filed Oct. 21, 2011, the entire contents ofwhich are hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND

A head-up display (HUD) is a translucent display panel which may be usedto present information to a user without requiring the user to diverthis or her gaze from a preferred gaze direction. For example, a HUD maybe used to present a driver of a vehicle with a variety of information(e.g., speed, fuel consumption, navigation information, time, etc.)while allowing the driver to simultaneously view traffic conditions andthe road in front of the vehicle.

A typical HUD includes a combiner, a projector, and a visual datasource. The combiner is a translucent panel upon which visual data isprojected. The combiner usually includes one or more optical coatingsthat reflect only the specific wavelengths of monochromatic light whichare projected by the HUD projector. Thus, the combiner can beconceptualized as a translucent mirror. The HUD projector is positionedrelative to the combiner to allow images, graphics, video, or othervisual data to be projected onto the combiner. The combiner thenreflects the projected images toward the user.

HUD systems require careful design consideration to ensure reliableperformance under a variety of operational conditions. For example, aHUD may be exposed to varying environmental conditions such as highhumidity, extreme temperatures, and the presence of contaminants whichmay cause corrosion. Additionally, when a HUD is implemented in a mobileenvironment, it is desirable to protect the combiner when the HUD systemis inactive to mitigate the potential of damaging the combiner. For thispurpose, a positioning system may be used to move the combiner betweenan active display position and a protected storage position.

Repeatable positional accuracy is important for combiner positioningsystems because an improperly positioned combiner will not functionproperly in a HUD system. Such positional accuracy may be achieved byusing high precision parts which are manufactured and maintained to veryclose tolerances. However, the need for such close tolerances has theundesirable effect of increasing the manufacture and maintenance expenseassociated with the positioning system.

Further, failure to control vibration associated with the combiner mayresult in a display that is irritating to the user and unpleasant toview over extended periods. Thus, a positioning system is needed whichallows the combiner to move between a protected position and a displayposition and which reduces undesirable vibration to allow for a pleasantviewing experience.

SUMMARY

In one embodiment, a combiner positioning system for a head-up displayincludes a carrier supporting a combiner for the head-up display,wherein the combiner is movable between a stowed position and a displayposition, and a camwheel rotatable about a camwheel axis, whereinrotation of the camwheel about the camwheel axis engages the carrier andmoves the combiner between the stowed position and the display position.In some embodiments, the camwheel engages the carrier directly withoutany intermediate components.

In some embodiments, the combiner positioning system further includes anangle adjustment support extending from the camwheel, wherein rotationof the camwheel about the camwheel axis engages the carrier with theangle adjustment support and rotates the combiner about a carrier axis,wherein the angle adjustment support is a self-locking element. In someembodiments, the angle adjustment support rigidly holds the carrier inthe display position and increases a stiffness of the combinerpositioning system when holding the carrier in the display position.

In some embodiments, the combiner positioning system further includes alocking element having an engaged position and a disengaged position,wherein the locking element engages an axle extending from the carrierin the display position and rigidly holds the axle in the displayposition. In some embodiments, when the locking element is in thedisengaged position, the locking element does not engage the axle anddoes not restrain the axle from moving laterally, wherein lateralmovement of the axle is required for the combiner to move between thestowed position and the display position. In some embodiments, thelocking element may be shaped as a lever rotatable about a lever axisbetween the engaged position and the disengaged position, wherein thelocking element is coupled to the camwheel via a pin extending from thelocking element and fitted into a slot in the camwheel, wherein rotationof the camwheel about the camwheel axis rotates the locking elementabout the lever axis between the engaged position and the disengagedposition.

In some embodiments, a pin extending from the camwheel disengages fromthe carrier when in the display position such that further rotation ofthe camwheel rotates the carrier about a carrier axis but does not causefurther lateral movement of the carrier, wherein lateral movement isrequired for the carrier to move between the stowed position and thedisplay position.

In some embodiments, the combiner positioning system further includes aguide element defining a path along which an axle extending from thecarrier moves between the stowed position and the display position or ahousing within which the combiner is contained when in the stowedposition and from which the combiner protrudes when in the displayposition.

In some embodiments, the combiner positioning system further includes aflap movable between an open position and a closed position, wherein theflap covers an opening the housing when in the closed position andexposes the opening when in the open position, wherein the flap iscoupled to the camwheel via a pin extending from the flap and fittedinto a slot in the camwheel, wherein rotation of the camwheel about thecamwheel axis moves the flap between the open position and the closedposition.

The combiner may be moved between a stowed position and a displayposition using a method including rotating a camwheel about a camwheelaxis, engaging a carrier supporting a combiner for a head-up display,and moving the combiner between a stowed position and a displayposition, wherein rotation of the camwheel about the camwheel axisengages the carrier and moves the combiner between the stowed positionand the display position. In some embodiments, the camwheel engages thecarrier directly without any intermediate components.

In some embodiments, the method for moving the combiner further includesengaging the carrier with an angle adjustment support extending from thecamwheel, wherein the angle adjustment support engages the carrier whenin the display position, and rotating the carrier about a carrier axis,wherein further rotation of the camwheel about the camwheel axis engagesthe carrier with the angle adjustment support and rotates the carrierabout the carrier axis via the angle adjustment support. In someembodiments, the method for moving the combiner further includes rigidlyholding the carrier in the display position with the angle adjustmentsupport.

In additional embodiments, the method includes engaging an axleextending from the carrier with a locking element, wherein the lockingelement has an engaged position and a disengaged position, and rigidlyholding the axle in the display position with the locking element,wherein when the locking element is in the disengaged position, thelocking element does not engage the axle and does not restrain the axlefrom moving laterally, wherein lateral movement of the axle is requiredfor the combiner to move between the stowed position and the displayposition. In some embodiments the locking element is shaped as a leverrotatable about a lever axis between the engaged position and thedisengaged position, wherein the locking element is coupled to thecamwheel such that rotation of the camwheel about the camwheel axisrotates the locking element about the lever axis between the engagedposition and the disengaged position.

In some embodiments, the method for moving the combiner further includesdisengaging the carrier from a pin extending from the camwheel when inthe display position such that further rotation of the camwheel does notcause further lateral movement of the carrier once in the displayposition, wherein lateral movement is required for the carrier to movebetween the stowed position and the display position. The combiner maybe contained within a housing when in the stowed position and mayprotrude from the housing when in the display position.

In some embodiments, the method for moving the combiner further includesmoving a flap between an open position and a closed position, whereinthe flap covers the slot when in the closed position and exposes theslot when in the open position, and wherein the flap is coupled to thecamwheel such that rotation of the camwheel about the camwheel axismoves the flap between the open position and the closed position.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a drawing of a head-up display system implemented in a vehicleand shown in the display position.

FIG. 2A is a drawing showing a combiner positioning system with thecombiner in the display position.

FIG. 2B is a drawing showing the combiner positioning system with thecombiner in the stowed position.

FIG. 3 is a drawing showing a half-sectional side perspective view ofthe combiner positioning system with the combiner in the displayposition.

FIG. 4A is a drawing showing a side view of the combiner positioningsystem with a locking element in a disengaged position.

FIG. 4B is a drawing showing a close-up view of a carrier axle in thedisplay position, with the locking element in the disengaged position.

FIG. 4C is a drawing showing a side view of the combiner positioningsystem with a locking element in an engaged position.

FIG. 4D is a drawing showing a close-up view of the carrier axle in thedisplay position, with the locking element in the engaged position.

FIG. 4E is a drawing showing the carrier axle rigidly held in a recessby the locking element.

FIG. 5A is a drawing showing a half-sectional side perspective view of acamwheel engaging the carrier via a carrier pin extending from thecamwheel when the combiner is in the stowed position.

FIG. 5B is a drawing showing a half-sectional side perspective view ofthe carrier pin disengaging from the camwheel with the combiner in thedisplay position.

FIG. 5C is a drawing showing a half-sectional side perspective view ofan angle adjustment support engaging the carrier with the combiner inthe display position.

FIG. 5D is a drawing showing a half-sectional side perspective view ofthe angle adjustment support supporting the carrier in the displayposition with the combiner fully rotated.

FIG. 6A is a drawing of the combiner positioning system showing a flapin a closed position, covering the combiner in the stowed position.

FIG. 6B is a drawing of the combiner positioning system showing the flapin an open position and the combiner partially extended between thestowed position and the display position.

FIG. 7 is a flow chart of a process by which the combiner positioningsystem operates, including locking the carrier in the display positionand rotating the combiner in the display position.

FIG. 8 is a flow chart of a process by which the combiner positioningsystem operates, emphasizing the role of the camwheel in engaging thecarrier and kinematically driving all sub-processes necessary to movethe combiner between the stowed position and the display position.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

Referring to FIG. 1, a HUD system 100 implemented in a vehicle is shown,according to an exemplary embodiment. The HUD system 100 may include acombiner 102 positioned between a driver of the vehicle and thewindshield. Combiner 102 may protrude from slot 104 when in a displayposition and may retract into slot 104 when not in use.

HUD system 100 may include a combiner 102. Combiner 102 may be any typeof combiner designed for operation in a HUD system or otherwise. Forexample, combiner 102 may be a translucent or transparent panel formedof a generally planar substrate including transparent or translucentpolymers, glass, or other transparent or translucent material. Combiner102 may be treated with one or more optical coatings selected to reflectspecific wavelengths of monochromatic light. Combiner 102 may be a flatpanel or may have a curvature.

Combiner 102 may be used in conjunction with a complete HUD system. Insuch a configuration, the HUD system may also include a light projector,a controller, or a video generator (not shown). The projector may beused to project visual images (e.g., pictures, graphics, video, text,etc.) received from a video generator onto combiner 102, which thenreflects the visual images to a user. The projector may be located inthe dashboard of the vehicle and oriented upward or at an angle toproject light toward combiner 102. However, in other embodiments, theprojector may be located elsewhere (e.g., attached to the roof, attachedto a visor, etc.). Combiner 102 may be oriented vertically or at anangle such that light projected upon combiner 102 is reflected toward auser.

Still referring to FIG. 1, HUD system 100 may include a slot 104.Combiner 102 may protrude from slot 104 when in a display position asshown in FIG. 1. Additionally, combiner 102 may retract into slot 104for storage when not in use. Slot 104 may be a hole, slot, gap, space,or other opening through which combiner 102 may extend. Slot 104 may bean opening in an enclosure (e.g., a shell, a frame, a housing, a case,etc.) designed to contain combiner 102, or may exist in a separatecomponent. A combiner positioning system may be used to transportcombiner 102 between a display position and a stowed position.

Referring generally to FIG. 2A-FIG. 8, combiner positioning system 200may move combiner 102 between the stowed position and the displayposition and rigidly hold combiner 102 in the display position, therebyreducing or eliminating the potential for vibration. Combinerpositioning system 200 may use one or more camwheels in conjunction withone or more slots or pins to drive a carrier supporting combiner 102between the stowed position and the display position. The camwheel(s)may be kinematically linked to a locking element, an angle adjustmentsupport, and/or a flap. Advantageously, all components necessary totransport the combiner between the stowed position and the displayposition may be operated by the rotation of one or more axially linkedcamwheels.

Referring now to FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B, a combiner positioning system 200is shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 2A shows combinerpositioning system 200 in a display position, whereas FIG. 2B showscombiner positioning system 200 in a stowed position. Referringspecifically to FIG. 2A, combiner positioning system 200 may include acarrier 204 for supporting combiner 102, an axle 206 extending fromcarrier 204 about which carrier 204 and combiner 102 may rotate when inthe display position, and a housing 220 for supporting and/or containingother components of system 200.

Still referring to FIG. 2A, combiner positioning system 200 is shown ina display position. Combiner positioning system 200 may include acarrier 204. Carrier 204 may be used to support combiner 102 and may besecurely attached to combiner 102 to form a unit. Carrier 204 may extendalong a length of combiner 102 and may be secured to combiner 102 by anysuitable means (e.g., a clamp, a weld, a fastener, a clip, an adhesivecompound, a screw, a bolt, etc.). For example, referring to FIG. 3,combiner 102 is shown fitted into a slot in carrier 204. However, inother embodiments, different or additional securing means may be used.In further embodiments, carrier 204 and combiner 102 may be formed intoa single component such that no securing or attaching is required.Carrier 204 may have an upper portion for supporting combiner 102 and alower portion for engaging a mechanism to transport carrier 204 betweenthe stowed position and the display position.

Referring again to FIG. 2A, combiner positioning system 200 may furtherinclude an axle 206. Axle 206 may extend from carrier 204 or may be partof carrier 204. For example, in some embodiments, axle 206 may includetwo mirrored pins fitted into opposing sides of carrier 204, defining anaxis extending through carrier 204 from one pin to the other pin. Inother embodiments, axle 206 may include a single rod extending throughcarrier 204 along the axis. In further embodiments, axle 206 may becombined with carrier 204 or formed as part of a unitary componentincluding both carrier 204 and axle 206. The precise structure of axle206 is not limiting in this regard.

Still referring to FIG. 2A, in some embodiments, combiner positioningsystem 200 may include a housing 220. Housing 220 may be used to hold,contain, secure, protect, position, mount, fasten, or otherwise locatethe various components of combiner positioning system 200. Housing 220may be an enclosure, a frame, one or more surfaces, or any other meansof orienting, protecting, containing, or positioning one or moreelements of system 200. However, housing 220 is not required and shouldnot be interpreted as a limitation on the scope of invention.

Referring now to FIG. 2B, combiner position system 200 is shown tofurther include one or more camwheels 230, rotatable about camwheel axis232. Camwheels 230 may include a carrier pin 246 for engaging carrier204 and an angle adjustment support 234. Combiner positioning system 200may rotate camwheel 230 and engage carrier 204, thereby moving carrier204 and combiner 102 between the stowed position and the displayposition. Angle adjustment support 234 may be used to adjust the angleof combiner 102 or support carrier 204 when in the display position.

Still referring to FIG. 2B, positioning system 200 may include acamwheel 230. Camwheel 230 may be rotatable about a camwheel axis 232.In some embodiments, rotation of camwheel 230 about camwheel axis 232may be accomplished automatically by any type of motor, drive trainsystem, or power system. In other embodiments, camwheel 230 may bemanually rotated either directly or via an intermediate means ofinteraction (e.g., a handle, a crank, a dial, a wheel, etc.). Camwheel230 may be any type of material including metals, polymers, woods,natural or synthetic compounds, or any other suitable material. Camwheel230 is shown to be generally cylindrical in shape, wherein the radius ofthe camwheel cylinder exceeds the length of the cylinder. However, othercamwheel shapes may be used (e.g., square, rectangular, triangular,irregular shape, etc.).

In some embodiments, camwheel 230 may be positioned to one side ofcombiner 102 (e.g., the left side or right side). However, in otherembodiments, multiple camwheels 230 may be used. For example, onecamwheel may be positioned on one side of combiner 102 and anothercamwheel may be positioned on the other side of combiner 102. Ifmultiple camwheels are used, the camwheels may be connected by a sharedcamwheel axle extending from one camwheel to another camwheel alongcamwheel axis 232. Thus, rotation of one camwheel or the camwheel axlemay cause the other camwheel(s) to rotate. Additionally, if multiplecamwheels are used, various components of camwheel positioning system200 may be positioned relative to one or more of the camwheels, asdescribed below.

Referring now to FIG. 3, in some embodiments, combiner positioningsystem 200 may include a guide element 208. Guide element 208 may definea path along which axle 206 moves between a display position and astowed position. In some embodiments, guide element 208 may be a slot orchannel within which axle 206 is constrained. In other embodiments,guide element 208 may be a positive extrusion, protrusion, rail, orother guiding element capable of guiding axle 206 between the stowedposition and the display position. For example, guide element 208 may beformed into housing 220 as a slot, as shown in FIG. 3. However, guideelement 208 is optional and is not intended to limit the scope ofinvention unless recited in the claims.

Referring now to FIG. 4A-FIG. 4D, combiner positioning system 200 isshown to further include a locking element 210. FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B showlocking element 210 in a disengaged position and FIG. 4C and FIG. 4Dshow locking element 210 in an engaged position. In an exemplaryembodiment, locking element 210 may engage axle 206 when combiner 102 isin the display position. Locking element 210 may rigidly hold axle 206in the display position, thereby reducing the potential for vibrationand providing a stable axis about which carrier 204 and combiner 102 mayrotate to adjust the display angle of combiner 102.

Locking element 210 may increase the resonance frequency or naturalfrequency of combiner 102, carrier 204, or combiner positioning system200 as a whole by restraining axle 206 from moving laterally (e.g.,movement along guide element 208 or otherwise) and by providingincreased stiffness (e.g., resistance to movement, rigidity, stability,etc.) when locking element 210 engages carrier 204 in the displayposition. However, locking element 210 does not prevent carrier 204 andcombiner 102 from rotating about an axis defined by axle 206 when in thedisplay position. This allows the display angle of combiner 102 to beadjusted in the display position.

In some embodiments, locking element 210 may be shaped as a lever havinga lever axle 214. Locking element 210 may rotate about lever axle 214between a disengaged position (shown in FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B) and anengaged position (shown in FIG. 4C and FIG. 4D). However, in otherembodiments, locking element 210 may be shaped as a slider, a clip, aledge, or any other element capable of securing axle 206 in the displayposition. When locking element 210 is in the disengaged position, axle206 may freely move between the display position and the stowedposition. However, when locking element 210 is in the engaged position,axle 206 is restrained from lateral movement and is only allowed torotate.

Referring now to FIG. 4E, in some embodiments, locking element 210 mayurge axle 206 into a recess 212 located at one end of guide element 208.Recess 212 may provide a secure resting position for axle 206 in thedisplay position. In some embodiments, recess 212 may be a separatefixed or movable part mounted or otherwise rigidly attached to housing220. In further embodiments, recess 212 may be incorporated into guideelement 208 (e.g., an end of guide element 208 may define recess 212) ormay be eliminated entirely. Advantageously, recess 212 may be designedto allow carrier 204 and combiner 102 to be removed from housing 220 forrepair or replacement without requiring disassembly of the entirecombiner positioning system 200.

In some embodiments, a spring (not shown) may be attached to lockingelement 210. The spring may provide increased resilience for holdingaxle 206 in the display position when engaged by locking element 210. Insome embodiments, the spring may be located on the opposite side oflocking element 210 from axle 206, thereby providing a compression forceurging locking element 210 and axle 206 toward recess 212. However, inother embodiments, the spring may be located elsewhere (e.g., aboverecess 212, on the other side of housing 220, etc.). In someembodiments, the spring may exert a tension force rather than acompression force, depending on its location, or may be a rotationalspring exerting a torque rather than a force. However, in furtherembodiments, the spring may be eliminated entirely.

Referring again to FIG. 4A, camwheel 230 may contain a locking elementslot 236. Locking element slot 236 may be located in one or morecamwheel 230 and may be placed on either side of camwheel 230.

Referring still to FIG. 4A, locking element 210 may be coupled tocamwheel 230 via a locking element pin 238. Locking element pin 238 mayextend from locking element 210 and may be fitted into locking elementslot 236 in camwheel 230. Locking element pin 238 and locking elementslot 236 may be positioned on either side of camwheel 230. Lockingelement slot 236 may be substantially circumferentially orientedrelative to camwheel 230. In some embodiments, the radial distancebetween locking element slot 236 and camwheel axis 232 may vary alongthe length of the slot 236. Thus, rotation of camwheel 230 may causelocking element 210 to rotate about lever axle 214, thereby movinglocking element 210 between the engaged position and disengagedposition.

Advantageously, locking element slot 236 may be designed such thatlocking element 210 engages axle 206 or carrier 204 only when axle 206is in the display position. Therefore, it may be kinematicallyimpossible for locking element 210 to prematurely move into the engagedposition before axle 206 or carrier 204 has reached the displayposition.

Referring now to FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B, a side sectional view of combinerpositioning system 200 is shown. Referring specifically to FIG. 5A,camwheel 230 may include a carrier pin 246 extending from the camwheel230. As camwheel 230 rotates, carrier pin 246 may engage carrier 204. Ascamwheel 230 continues to rotate, carrier 204 may be moved between thestowed position (shown in FIG. 5A) and the display position (shown inFIG. 5B).

Referring specifically to FIG. 5B, in some embodiments, carrier pin 246may disengage from carrier 204 once carrier 204 has reached the displayposition. By disengaging carrier pin 246 from carrier 204, camwheel 230may further rotate without moving carrier 204 from the display position.

Referring now to FIG. 5C, camwheel 230 may include an angle adjustmentsupport 234. Angle adjustment support 234 may extend from camwheel 230and may be generally circumferentially oriented around camwheel axis232. As camwheel 230 continues to rotate, angle adjustment support 234may engage carrier 204 in the display position or prior to reaching thedisplay position. In some embodiments, the radial distance betweencamwheel axis 232 and angle adjustment support 234 may vary along thecircumferential length of angle adjustment support 234. Thus, furtherrotation of camwheel 230 once angle adjustment support 234 has engagedcarrier 204 may cause carrier 204 and combiner 102 to rotate about axle206.

For example, still referring to FIG. 5C, angle adjustment support 234 isshown engaging carrier 204. As camwheel 230 continues to rotate, angleadjustment support 234 may move from the position shown in FIG. 5C tothe position shown in FIG. 5D. Therefore, angle adjustment support 234may be used to adjust the angle of combiner 102 when in the displayposition in order to more accurately reflect projected light toward auser.

Still referring to FIG. 5C, in some embodiments, angle adjustmentsupport 234 may be a self-locking element. For example, as camwheel 230rotates, angle adjustment support 234 may urge, press, or force carrier204 into the display position due to the varying radial distance betweenangle adjustment support 234 and camwheel axis 232. Once in the displayposition, some or all of the load (e.g., weight, lifting force, torque)necessary to hold carrier 204 in the display position may be transferredto angle adjustment support 234. Angle adjustment support 234 mayrigidly hold carrier 204 in the display position and may be reinforcedwith ridges 252 extending radially between angle adjustment support 234and camwheel axis 232. Reinforcing ridges 252 may stiffen the connectionbetween angle adjustment support 234 and camwheel 230, therebyincreasing the resonance frequency or natural frequency of combiner 102,carrier 204, or combiner positioning system 200 as a whole.

Referring now to FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B, combiner positioning system 200may include a flap 222. FIG. 6A shows flap 222 in a closed positionwhereas FIG. 6B shows flap 222 in an open position. Flap 222 may cover aslot or gap (e.g., slot 104) if combiner positioning system 200 iscontained within a housing. Flap 222 may be made of any material,including polymers, metals, woods, glass, synthetic or naturalcompounds, etc. Flap 222 may be rigid, flexible, semi-flexible, or haveany intermediate degree of flexibility. Flap 222 may be opaque,translucent, or transparent and may have any color or visual appearance.

In some embodiments, flap 222 may move between an open position and aclosed position. For example, in the closed position, flap 222 may coverslot 104, thereby protecting combiner 102 and the other components ofcombiner positioning system 200 from environmental damage (e.g.,pollution, foreign particles, excessive heat, physical, electrical, orchemical damage, etc.). In the open position, flap 222 may retract from,or otherwise expose slot 104 such that combiner 102 may extend throughslot 104 into the display position.

Referring again to FIG. 4A, flap 222 may be coupled to camwheel 230 viaa flap pin 242. Flap pin 242 may extend from flap 222 and may be fittedinto a flap slot 240 in camwheel 230. Flap pin 242 and flap slot 240 maybe positioned on either side of camwheel 230. Flap slot 240 may besubstantially circumferentially oriented relative to camwheel 230. Insome embodiments, the radial distance between flap slot 240 and camwheelaxis 232 may vary along the length of the slot 240. Thus, rotation ofcamwheel 230 may cause flap pin 242 to move relative to camwheel axis232 and thereby cause flap 222 to retract from or otherwise expose slot104.

Advantageously, flap slot 240 may be designed (e.g., incorporated intocamwheel 230) such that flap 222 is withdrawn from slot 104 via rotationof camwheel 230 before combiner 102 is moved into the space previouslyoccupied by flap 222 when moving combiner 102 into the display position.Therefore, it may be kinematically impossible for combiner 102 tocontact flap 222 or to extend into the display position before flap 222has been withdrawn from slot 104.

In some embodiments, camwheel 230 may be positioned to one side ofcombiner 102 (e.g., the left side or right side). However, in otherembodiments, multiple camwheels may be used. For example, one camwheelmay be positioned on one side of combiner 102 and another camwheel maybe positioned on the other side of combiner 102. If multiple camwheelsare used, the camwheels may be connected by a shared camwheel axleextending from one camwheel to another camwheel along camwheel axis 232.Thus, rotation of one camwheel or the camwheel axle may cause the othercamwheel(s) to rotate.

Additionally, if multiple camwheels are used, the various components ofcamwheel positioning system 200 (e.g., pins 238, 242, and 246, slots 236and 240, locking element 210, angle adjustment support 234, guideelement 208) may be coupled to one or more of the camwheels. Forexample, locking element 210 may located on only one side of combiner102 and may be rotated via locking element slot 236 in the camwheel onthat side. On the other side of combiner 102, angle adjustment support234 may be used in place of, or in addition to, locking element 210 andlocking element slot 236.

Referring to FIG. 7, a flow chart of a process 700 by which combinerpositioning system 200 operates is shown, according to an exemplaryembodiment. In brief overview, process 700 may be used to move thecombiner between the stowed position and the display position (step 702)and engage a portion of the carrier with a locking element and hold thecarrier in the display position (step 704). Optionally, process 700 mayalso be used to rotate the carrier about a carrier axis (step 706),disengage the portion of the carrier with the locking element (step708), and move the carrier from the display position to the stowedposition (step 710). Steps shown with broken lines around the edges(e.g., step 706-710) are optional depending on the particularconfiguration of the combiner positioning system.

Still referring to FIG. 7, process 700 is shown to include moving acarrier between a stowed position and a display position (step 702). Insome embodiments, axle 206 may extend from carrier 204 and step 702 maybe accomplished by moving axle 206 between the stowed position anddisplay position. In some embodiments, step 702 may include moving axle206 along guide element 208, which may be fastened to or embedded in ahousing 220. However, in other embodiments, guide element 208 andhousing 220 are unnecessary and may be eliminated. Step 702 may beaccomplished using a drive motor or camwheel system to move carrier 204between the stowed position and the display position. However, in otherembodiments, other power systems may be used.

Still referring to FIG. 7, process 700 is shown to further includeengaging a portion of the carrier with a locking element and rigidlyholding the carrier in the display position (step 704). In someembodiments, step 704 may be accomplished using locking element 210 toengage axle 206 when in the display position and rigidly hold axle 206in place. In some embodiments, locking element 210 may urge axle 206into a recess 212 located at one end of guide element 208. However, inother embodiments, recess 212 and guide element 208 are unnecessary.Step 704 may be accomplished using a drive motor or camwheel system toengage the portion of the carrier with the locking element upon reachingthe display position. However, in other embodiments, other power systemsmay be used.

Process 700 is shown to optionally include rotating the carrier andcombiner about an axis defined by an axle extending from the carrier(step 706). Step 706 may be performed to adjust the angle of combiner102 when in the display position in order to more accurately reflectprojected light toward a user. Step 706 may be accomplished using adrive motor or camwheel system to rotate carrier 204 and combiner 102about axle 206. However, in other embodiments, other power systems maybe used.

Process 700 is further shown to optionally include disengaging theportion of the carrier with the locking element (step 708) and movingthe carrier from the display position to the stowed position (step 710).Steps 708 and 710 may be performed to protect combiner 102 by retractingcombiner 102 into housing 220 or another protective component in orderto prevent damage to combiner 102 or combiner positioning system 200when the HUD system is not in use. Step 708 may be accomplished bymoving locking element 210 from an engaged position to a disengagedposition, thereby allowing axle 206 to move laterally along guiderail208 or otherwise. If step 706 is optionally performed, it may benecessary to rotate carrier 204 and combiner 102 such that axis 206 maybe moved laterally. Then carrier 204 and combiner 102 may be moved fromthe display position to the stowed position. Step 708 and step 710 maybe accomplished using a drive motor or camwheel system to disengagelocking element 210, rotate combiner 102 and carrier 204, and movecombiner 102 and carrier 204 from the display position to the stowedposition. However, in other embodiments, other power systems may beused.

Referring now to FIG. 8, a flow chart of a process 800 by which combinerpositioning system 200 may operate is shown, according to an exemplaryembodiment. In brief overview, process 800 may be used to move thecombiner between the stowed position and the display position (step808), engage an axle extending from the carrier with a locking element(step 810), engage the carrier with an angle adjustment support (step814), and rotate the carrier about a carrier axis (step 816). Stepsshown with broken lines around the edges (e.g., step 806, and 810-816)are optional depending on the particular configuration of the combinerpositioning system. Advantageously, all of steps 804-816 areaccomplished by rotating camwheel 230 about a camwheel axis (step 802).In other words, step 802 kinematically drives all other steps of process800.

For example, rotating camwheel 230 (step 802) may cause carrier pin 246to engage carrier 204 (step 804) and move carrier 204 along withcombiner 102 between the stowed position and the display position (step808). Optionally, if flap 222 is used in combiner positioning system200, rotating camwheel 230 may also cause flap 222 to move between anopen position and closed position (step 806) prior to moving combiner102 into the display position (step 808). However, if combiner 102 isbeing moved from the display position to the stowed position, step 806would occur after step 808, as the process would be performed in reverseorder.

Still referring to FIG. 8, process 800 may include one or more ofoptional steps 810-814, all of which are also accomplished by continuingto rotate camwheel 230. For example, process 800 may include engaging anaxle 206 extending from the carrier 204 with a locking element 210 (step810). Continued rotation of camwheel 230 may accomplish step 810 byrotating locking element 210 between a disengaged position (shown inFIGS. 4A-4B) and an engaged position (shown in FIGS. 4C-4D) as lockingelement pin 238 slides along locking element slot 236.

Locking element 210 may discharge the force exerted on carrier pin 246,thereby allowing carrier pin 246 to disengage from carrier 204 (step812). Once carrier pin 246 has disengaged, camwheel 230 may continue torotate without affecting the lateral position of carrier 204.

Process 800 may also include engaging the carrier 204 with an angleadjustment support 234 (step 814) as shown in FIG. 5C and FIG. 5D. Angleadjustment support 234 may perform a similar function to locking element210 by restraining carrier 204 and combiner 102 in the display position(e.g., preventing lateral movement). Additionally, due to the varyingradial distance between angle adjustment support 234 and camwheel axis232 (i.e., one end of angle adjustment support 234 may be closer to axis232 than the other end), angle adjustment support 234 may cause carrier204 and combiner 102 to rotate about a carrier axis (step 816) ascamwheel 230 continues to rotate.

Advantageously, all steps of process 800 are driven by the rotation ofcamwheel 230. By rotating camwheel 230 in one direction, all stepsnecessary to move combiner 102 from the stowed position to the displayposition, and also several optional steps, are kinematically carriedout. Because all moving parts (e.g., pins, levers, support structures,etc.) are directly connected to one or more camwheels, no intermediateelements (e.g., additional gears, wheels, levers, etc.) are required. Inother words, all movement, whether rotational, linear, or a combinationthereof, are kinematically caused by the rotation of one or more axiallycoupled camwheels.

The construction and arrangement of the systems and methods as shown inthe various exemplary embodiments are illustrative only. Although only afew embodiments have been described in detail in this disclosure, manymodifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions,structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values ofparameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors,orientations, etc.). For example, the position of elements may bereversed or otherwise varied and the nature or number of discreteelements or positions may be altered or varied. Accordingly, all suchmodifications are intended to be included within the scope of thepresent disclosure. The order or sequence of any process or method stepsmay be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative embodiments.Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be madein the design, operating conditions and arrangement of the exemplaryembodiments without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

Although the figures may show a specific order of method steps, theorder of the steps may differ from what is depicted. Also two or moresteps may be performed concurrently or with partial concurrence. Allsuch variations are within the scope of the disclosure.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A combiner positioning system for a head-updisplay, the system comprising: a carrier supporting a combiner for thehead-up display, wherein the combiner is movable between a stowedposition and a display position; a camwheel rotatable about a camwheelaxis; and a pin extending from the camwheel, wherein rotation of thecamwheel about the camwheel axis engages the pin with the carrier andmoves the combiner between the stowed position and the display position,and wherein the pin disengages from the carrier when in the displayposition such that further rotation of the camwheel rotates the carrierabout a carrier axis but does not cause further lateral movement of thecarrier, wherein lateral movement is required for the carrier to movebetween the stowed position and the display position.
 2. The combinerpositioning system of claim 1, wherein the camwheel engages the carrierdirectly without any intermediate components.
 3. The combinerpositioning system of claim 1, further comprising an angle adjustmentsupport extending from the camwheel, wherein rotation of the camwheelabout the camwheel axis engages the carrier with the angle adjustmentsupport and rotates the combiner about a carrier axis, wherein the angleadjustment support is a self-locking element.
 4. The combinerpositioning system of claim 3, wherein the angle adjustment supportrigidly holds the carrier in the display position and increases astiffness of the combiner positioning system when holding the carrier inthe display position.
 5. The combiner positioning system of claim 1,further comprising a locking element having an engaged position and adisengaged position, wherein the locking element engages an axleextending from the carrier in the display position and rigidly holds theaxle in the display position.
 6. The combiner positioning system ofclaim 5, wherein, when the locking element is in the disengagedposition, the locking element does not engage the axle and does notrestrain the axle from moving laterally, wherein lateral movement of theaxle is required for the combiner to move between the stowed positionand the display position.
 7. The combiner positioning system of claim 5,wherein the locking element is shaped as a lever rotatable about a leveraxis between the engaged position and the disengaged position, whereinthe locking element is coupled to the camwheel via a pin extending fromthe locking element and fitted into a slot in the camwheel, whereinrotation of the camwheel about the camwheel axis rotates the lockingelement about the lever axis between the engaged position and thedisengaged position.
 8. The combiner positioning system of claim 1,further comprising a guide element defining a path along which an axleextending from the carrier moves between the stowed position and thedisplay position.
 9. The combiner positioning system of claim 1, furthercomprising a housing within which the combiner is contained when in thestowed position and from which the combiner protrudes when in thedisplay position.
 10. The combiner positioning system of claim 9,further comprising a flap movable between an open position and a closedposition, wherein the flap covers an opening in the housing when in theclosed position and exposes the opening when in the open position,wherein the flap is coupled to the camwheel via a pin extending from theflap and fitted into a slot in the camwheel, wherein rotation of thecamwheel about the camwheel axis moves the flap between the openposition and the closed position.
 11. A method of positioning a combinerfor a head-up display, the method comprising: rotating a camwheel abouta camwheel axis; engaging a carrier supporting a combiner for a head-updisplay; moving the combiner between a stowed position and a displayposition, wherein rotation of the camwheel about the camwheel axisengages the carrier and moves the combiner between the stowed positionand the display position; and disengaging the carrier from a pinextending from the camwheel when in the display position such thatfurther rotation of the camwheel does not cause further lateral movementof the carrier once in the display position, wherein lateral movement isrequired for the carrier to move between the stowed position and thedisplay position.
 12. The method of claim 11, wherein the camwheelengages the carrier directly without any intermediate components. 13.The method of claim 11, further comprising: engaging the carrier with anangle adjustment support extending from the camwheel, wherein the angleadjustment support engages the carrier when in the display position; androtating the carrier about a carrier axis, wherein further rotation ofthe camwheel about the camwheel axis engages the carrier with the angleadjustment support and rotates the carrier about the carrier axis viathe angle adjustment support.
 14. The method of claim 13, furthercomprising: rigidly holding the carrier in the display position with theangle adjustment support.
 15. The method of claim 11, furthercomprising: engaging an axle extending from the carrier with a lockingelement, wherein the locking element has an engaged position and adisengaged position; and rigidly holding the axle in the displayposition with the locking element, wherein when the locking element isin the disengaged position, the locking element does not engage the axleand does not restrain the axle from moving laterally, wherein lateralmovement of the axle is required for the combiner to move between thestowed position and the display position.
 16. The method of claim 15,wherein the locking element is shaped as a lever rotatable about a leveraxis between the engaged position and the disengaged position, whereinthe locking element is coupled to the camwheel such that rotation of thecamwheel about the camwheel axis rotates the locking element about thelever axis between the engaged position and the disengaged position. 17.The method of claim 11, wherein the combiner is contained within ahousing when in the stowed position and protrudes from the housing whenin the display position.
 18. The method of claim 17, further comprising:moving a flap between an open position and a closed position, whereinthe flap covers an opening in the housing when in the closed positionand exposes the opening when in the open position, wherein the flap iscoupled to the camwheel such that rotation of the camwheel about thecamwheel axis moves the flap between the open position and the closedposition.